Kendrapara: The district administration has moved to put in place tourists infrastructure facilities at the serene and picturesque beach at Pentha.

The beach, which has turned into major tourist destination in the recent years, is wallowing in neglect with no infrastructure for visitors.

The beach is situated amid idyllic surroundings. In the close proximity of the tranquil beach, luxuriant mangrove and casuarina forest cover adds to the attraction of the spot. It is also an ecotourism spot, where nature lovers can savour the warmth of sea and forest.

The Pentha-Barunei coast has immense untapped tourism potential. The beach tourism scope is being opened up in this region. The medieval age Jagannath temple at Pentha has been refurbished under coastal heritage restoration programme. As the road connectivity to the place has been improved, there has been a substantial spurt in the inflow of tourists to Pentha and Barunei.

"We have sent a proposal to the government for infrastructure development of the spot. Tourist facility centre with toilets and rest sheds are coming up for the convenience of beach tourists.

A vehicle parking yard is also being established," said district tourism officer Bijoy Mohanty.

The department is intent on establishing at least the minimum facility required for the tourists. Once the tourism sector gets a facelift, it would open the doors for employment avenues for local people. So, the local people should come forward to keep the beach and shoreline clean, he said. The beach at Pentha is comparable to beautiful beaches in Goa. The forest lying nearby gives the place vibrant look.